Following his election victory, Trump revealed Sunday that former ICE head Tom Homan would assume the role of “border czar” in his upcoming administration. The appointment places a trusted supporter in charge of the anticipated stringent measures at the southern border.
Announcing the decision on Truth Social, Trump outlined Homan’s expanded duties, which now include oversight of the Southern and Northern Borders, as well as all Maritime and Aviation Security.
Trump expressed confidence in Homan’s capabilities, stating, “There’s no one better suited to secure and manage our Borders.” He further confirmed that Homan would oversee the deportation of individuals residing in the U.S. illegally, adding his full endorsement: “I have no doubt he’ll excel at this crucial and long-awaited role.”
As Trump’s border czar, Homan is tasked with implementing historic immigration changes
Much of Trump’s initial agenda is expected to prioritize immigration enforcement, with Homan positioned to carry out the directive. Trump has proposed executing the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history, a strategy that would likely involve local law enforcement, though details on cost and broader impacts remain scant.
Many of these planned actions may rely heavily on executive powers. Trump has promised to issue an executive order on his first day to prevent automatic U.S. citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, a policy change certain to face legal obstacles.
Additionally, Trump is likely to restart construction on the southern border wall, a project the Biden administration halted. He may also consider reestablishing policies like “Remain in Mexico,” which required asylum-seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases progressed in U.S. immigration courts.
During his initial term, Homan served as ICE director for the first 16 months and has since been an outspoken advocate for Trump’s immigration policies, often appearing in conservative media.
In an October interview, Homan dismissed concerns over family separations in connection with Trump’s proposed mass deportations. “Families can be deported together,” he said in an interview with “60 Minutes.”
